MERCED, Calif. — The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has activated an Ebony Alert for 17-year-old Cecilia Jones, who was last seen five months ago in Merced. The alert was issued on Monday, May 19, 2025, at the request of the Merced Police Department.
Jones was last seen on foot shortly after 11:00 a.m. on December 14, 2024, near North Highway 59 and West Yosemite Avenue. At the time, she was staying in a group home and is originally from San Joaquin County. Authorities believe she may still be in the region.
The Ebony Alert was launched in Merced, Stanislaus, San Joaquin, and Sacramento counties after a social worker contacted the nonprofit Black and Missing Foundation, prompting renewed attention to her disappearance. Cecilia is described as 5 feet 2 inches tall, weighing 106 pounds, with brown eyes and brown hair. She was last seen wearing a black sweater, gray sweatpants, and carrying both a black backpack and a black duffle bag.
The alert remains active as of May 20, 2025. Anyone with information about Cecilia Jones’ whereabouts is urged to contact the Merced Police Department at or dial 9-1-1.
Merced Police Department (Non-Emergency Dispatch): (209) 385-6905
California Highway Patrol (CHP) Non-Emergency Line: 1-800-TELL-CHP (1-800-835-5247)
